CSOs Capacity Building and Empowerment

HIV Health Education Session

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on vulnerable groups in society. Key populations have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic. Some effects include economic losses and reduced access to health services. 

C-TECH Caribbean has been working with partners to compile and exchange best practices and information as they become available, including vital information for People living with HIV (PLHIV) on HIV services impacted by  COVID-19 and possible measures to be taken throughout this challenging period. 

Consequently, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ HIV/STI/ TB Unit and the Jamaica Network of Seropositives (JN+), C-TECH has partnered together to host a series of monthly virtual information sessions related to HIV Health information via the Zoom web platform. The information sessions target PLHIV, their care and support teams and generally focuses on COVID-19 and HIV. However, due to the growing audience and interest, the sessions have expanded to include general HIV Health information.

This initiative is funded and by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through a grant awarded to the International Training and Education Center for Health (I-TECH).

Revision of the Jamaica Network of Seropositives(JN+) PHDP Curriculum 

C-TECH has been collaborating with the Jamaica Network of Seropositives (JN+) to review the Positive Health, Dignity and Prevention (PHDP) 2017 second edition curriculum. The revised edition will be used for both virtual and face-to-face trainings.

Enhancing Empowerment for Women and Girls via Psychosocial and Economic Initiatives

Implementation Period: October 2021 – September 2022 

Role in the Assignment: Caribbean Region Implementing Partner 

With funding from HRSA via a sub-agreement with I-TECH, C-TECH provided support to Eve for Life to undertake the project entitled “Enhancing empowerment for women and girls via psychosocial and economic initiatives,” spearheaded by Eve for Life, a Jamaican NGO that supports survivors of sexual abuse and individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. The primary object of the project was to improve health outcomes by providing specialized services and support to 100 women and girls living with HIV or experiencing gender-based violence (GBV) aged 15-35 over a twelve-month period. The project integrates a comprehensive support framework for vulnerable women, including trauma-centered care with counseling and psychological assistance, the hiring of Life Coaches and Navigators for mentorship and healthcare connectivity. It also includes the development of an Online Case Management System to monitor client progress and the facilitation of auxiliary support services to improve care retention. Partnerships with private health providers and legal services offer further comprehensive support. Economic empowerment initiatives to enhance employment opportunities for at least 60 women and girls, as well as the provision of safe shelter for those affected by HIV stigma and gender-based violence.

If you require additional information on the information sessions or join the next session, please email info@ctech-caribbean.org.

Access past presentations here

Joining Forces to Tackle NCDs!

Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) and the Caribbean Training and Education Center for Health (C-TECH) team of Consultants had a fruitful meeting with Dr. Hon. Christopher Tufton, Minister of Health and Wellness, on July 14, 2023. Joined by his NCD team at the Ministry of Health and Wellness, we discussed the Caribbean Development Bank funded Caribbean Moves project. This initiative aims to improve the health of the Caribbean region and combat non-communicable diseases. Stay tuned for updates on our collaborative efforts!

A stressful work environment can contribute to several health issues both mentally and physically, these may include headache, insomnia, stomach-aches, anxiety, difficulty concentrating high blood pressure, and a weakened immune system. 

It is important then that we take meaningful steps to ensure that we are manging our own personal space to avoid some of these issues. Our assumption, perception and expectation affect how we react to others and life situations and ultimately how we view how jobs. When assumption, expectations and perceptions are not met, we respond through our thought’s feelings and behaviours. It is important to practice positive thinking as our thoughts affects how we feel, and our feelings affects how we behave.

Here are some tips to help you with your work environment:

  • Seek for clarity instead of trying to convince yourself of what others are thinking
  • Refrain from personalisation, not everything mentioned is a direct attack on you
  • Invest in self care
  • Set limits
  • Proper nutrition
  • Connect with people

We often here people expressing how stressed they are feeling or how over worked they are, not having enough time to do the things they like such as spending time with friend and families or even a few self-care activities. We have watch families suffer due to long working hours as well as our jobs due to loss of interest and enthusiasm resulting from burnout. 

When workers are balanced and happy, they are more productive, take fewer sick days, and are more likely to stay in their jobs.

Here is how you can accomplish work life balance

At work    

  • Set manageable goals each day. 
  • Be efficient with your time at work. 
  • Take five. 
  • Communicate effectively.
  • Give yourself a break. 

         At Home

  • Don’t over commit. 
  • Get support. 
  • Stay active. 
  • Treat your body right. 
  • Get help if you need it. 

Tameca Dempster-Mattocks is an accomplished Associate Counseling Psychologist and Financial Counsellor, holding an M.Sc. Degree in Counselling and Social Work from Mico University College, along with multiple certifications in mental health from the University of Washington.

 

Currently, she holds the positions of Regional Psychologist – NERHA and Mental Health Program Coordinator at the Caribbean Training & Education Center for Health (C-TECH). Tameca has successfully managed regional mental health projects, overseeing and leading impactful initiatives that positively influence the mental well-being of individuals in the region. 

 

With a passion for community service, Tameca actively contributes to various private and charitable organizations, dedicating her time as a volunteer to support community members and at-risk youth.

Contact us for mental health support services

Telephone #: 8764161449

Email: wellness@ctech-caribbean.org